Risk Factors for Technology Industry Change with the Economy

SACRAMENTO, Calif., April 20 /PRNewswire/ -- Today's technology leaders face
challenging times in unprecedented circumstances. On April 6, 2009, Julie
Davis, of Aon Corporation, gave an unprecedented speech in Silicon Valley.
During the presentation, Davis outlined new risk factors and trends for
technology firms managing risks. The event attracted over 100 professional
women in various leadership positions and attracted professionals extending to
Sacramento, California.

"Historically, risk factors were discussions held for public firms. But we are
learning more about the importance of helping our clients identify changes in
risk factors as the economy changes," said Davis. During Davis' presentation,
she outlined a concise summary of shifting economic and business issues that
affect the way technology firms manage their risks.

Many of the risk factors that topped the list of greatest concerns have not
changed from Aon's previous survey. Previous risk factors have included
foreign competition, intellectual property infringement, development of new
products and services and talent attraction and retention. "But new risks are
topping our clients' list of concerns," said Davis. They include changes in
economic conditions, growing concerns about product liability, changes in
technology risks, changes in liabilities to board members, exposures
associated with international alliances and joint ventures, ability to drive
strategic plans, executive compensation tied to stock prices, competition from
other countries and the need for continued R&D investments.

"Clearly, our clients had a lot on their minds over the past six months," said
Davis. She further commented that the changes in risk factors should be
powerful incentives for technology firms to broaden their view of how they
manage risks.

Michael Flanagan, managing director of Aon's National Technology Practice,
added that in response to the shifting climate, the industry practice has
launched a number of new insurance products and risk services to respond to
the changing needs of our clients. He cited two examples, which included their
recent announcement on their unprecedented suite of insurance coverages for
Middle Market Technology firms and the expansion of their "TechAudit"
diagnostic program.

Davis received standing ovations after her keynote speech. Anna Smith,
President of California Women's Network, concluded that their study and new
suite of insurance products and services clearly distinguishes Aon from their
competition.

Biographical Background Information of the Speaker:

With nearly 20 years experience in the insurance industry, Julie K. Davis has
served as executive vice president in Aon Technology practice group. She has a
significant background in risk management experience for private and publicly
traded companies and is responsible for the contribution to the growth of the
practice in California. In addition, Julie is actively involved on the boards
and committees of several local organizations. Through her active
participation with these organizations, Julie plays an influential role in the
development of the business community. She is the recipient of Chicago
Innovation Awards and an Insurance Innovators Award, and finalist in the
Annual Stevie Awards for Innovation of Best New Product / Service. She has
been recognized by I-Street Magazine in their annual "Women in Black" Awards
and named Who's Who for Entrepreneurial Work in the Insurance and Risk
Management field. She attended University of Texas and Rice University. She
can be reached by email at julie_k_davis@ars.aon.com or by phone at
408-439-2654.

About the California Women's Network:

This is a women's association designed for leaders of new or rapidly growing
companies with less than 1,000 employees and leaders of autonomous business
units in larger organizations. More information about the California Women's
Network can be found at http://www.californiawomensnetwork.com or by email at
californiawomensnetwork@gmail.com, Anna Smith, President.

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SOURCE California Women's Network

Julie K. Davis, +1-408-439-2654, julie_k_davis@ars.aon.com